I'm curious about the different events held at the Coast Guard Academy. What should prospective students and parents know about the academy's major events throughout the year?
While the exact events may vary from year to year, the United States Coast Guard Academy typically has a sequence of hallmark events on its academic calendar.
One of the first events of the academic year is the Swearing-In Ceremony at the end of the summer, which marks the official start of the Swab Summer for new cadets. This is a memorable ceremony, an important rite of passage for all entering cadets, and parents are encouraged to attend.
Throughout the year, the Parents Association of the USCGA organizes a Parent's Weekend in the fall. This gives parents the opportunity to visit the campus, meet the faculty and staff, and participate in workshops and activities.
Homecoming usually occurs in the fall as well, with a football game and other athletics events, social gatherings, and community activities celebrating the alumni.
Another significant event is the Academy’s Service Academy Career Conference (SACC), which is a job and graduate school fair for service academy students.
In the spring, the academy traditionally hosts the Eclipse Legacy Fund Reception & Dinner, an event that celebrates the accomplishments of minority cadets and officers in the Coast Guard.
As the academic year ends, the Coast Guard Academy holds a week-long series of activities known as "Cadet for a Day," where prospective cadets can shadow a current cadet to get a realistic sense of academy life.
Lastly, the annual commencement ceremony in May is a major event, marking the completion of the cadets' four-year journey with the transition from cadets to officers.
Keep in mind that due to public health measures, some events might be held virtually or with modifications, and it's always best to check the USCGA's official website for the most up-to-date information.
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